Elections in Venezuela: the opposition demanded that the National Electoral Council extend the deadline for candidate registration by three days

79

Venezuelan Opposition Demands Extension of Presidential Candidate Nomination Period

The Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD) – the main opposition coalition in Venezuela – has called for an extension of the nomination period for presidential candidates, citing difficulties in registering the applicant Corina Yoris. The opposition is requesting a three-day extension, until March 28, to address legal and procedural issues that have hindered their ability to nominate Yoris.

According to a communication sent to the National Electoral Council (CNE), the PUD asserts that constitutional rights, including the right to participate in public affairs, have been violated. The opposition claims that they have been denied access to the application process for Yoris, who was chosen as a candidate due to the disqualification of opposition leader María Corina Machado.

The opposition also criticized the lack of publication of the presidential election schedule in the Electoral Gazette, which they claim has not been done. Despite the ongoing registration of candidates, the opposition argues that the country does not have an official program of activities for the upcoming elections.

Meanwhile, candidates aligned with the regime, including Nicolás Maduro and several former mayors and opposition figures, have already registered for the elections. Maduro, the standard bearer of the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV), is expected to make his candidacy official on Monday.

The Venezuelan opposition has raised concerns about a potential “maneuver” to prevent the nomination of Corina Yoris, emphasizing the importance of democratic unity in the face of challenges from the CNE and the Supreme Court, which are seen as supportive of the Chavista regime.

As the deadline for candidate registration approaches, tensions are rising in Venezuela as political parties and candidates navigate a complex electoral landscape. The outcome of the nominating process will have significant implications for the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for July 28.